LEROY NINKER SADDLES UP by Kate DiCamillo

Leroy Ninker, reformed thief from the Mercy Watson series, is a cowboy in need of a horse - and he finds Maybelline through a newspaper ad. She may be old and missing some teeth, but Leroy loves her. There are three rules to life with Maybelline, though, and there will be trouble if Leroy forgets them.

Cute story that will appeal to fans of the Mercy Watson series as well as readers who are ready for illustrated transitional chapter books. My students who have been begging for more Mercy Watson stories will be pleased to get this in our library.

3 out of 5 stars
AR Reading level of 3.7

* I received an electronic copy of this book from the publisher for free in the hope that I would review it honestly on my blog. Regardless, I only review books I enjoyed. I don’t believe in passing on negative reviews. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

PICTURE BOOK: Ponyella by Laura Numeroff

A Cinderella story - with a horse-y twist! There isn't much to say about the story itself. It is a good adaptation of the original that will appeal to young horse lovers. The illustrations are adorable!!  They captured my attention even before the title did. This was one I had to buy right away, both for the library and for my niece (though, technically the book is from her grandmother - I just chose it from the 500+ books in our book fair). This will be one my students won't let sit on a shelf very long!

4 out of 5 stars
AR Reading Level of 3.2